Embedded systems are usually part of a larger application and perform application-specific tasks in the background.
Their components or circuit boards require sufficient installation space and options for convenient integration of connectors, connection cables, antennas and much more. The latter can be solved by raised, flat side surfaces. In larger enclosure ranges, the designated connection surfaces are typically recessed. This is not solely for aesthetic purposes but also provides a degree of protection for the connections in the final application.
Embedded systems are purpose-built for their specific applications and therefore consume less energy. Nevertheless, power is still required for the devices to operate. Depending on the application, this may be supplied via dedicated power lines or through an internal power source, such as batteries or rechargeable cells (with battery compartments accessible externally or mounted on the circuit board).
Enclosures ‘Made in Germany’ offer exceptional quality and functionality. Their higher price point, compared with other manufacturers, is reflected in superior product design and surface quality, a wide range of sizes and styles within each series and a comprehensive selection of matching accessories. Furthermore, these enclosures can be supplied in consistent product quality for decades, providing assurance prior to the launch of new device series with long product life cycles.
Many console, desktop, wall-mounted, handheld, and wearable enclosures also feature recessed surfaces for the integration of membrane keypads, decorative foils and other control units. The use of modern, muted colours enables customers the opportunity to create their own individual product from the standard design.
Examples of enclosures with recessed surfaces
1. IP protection class:
A certain degree of protection against dust and moisture is often required. This means that enclosures with high IP protection classes, such as IP 65 (and in some cases even higher), are in demand. This is achieved by tongue and groove connections between the individual parts and an additional seal that is inserted into the groove and then sealed accordingly during assembly.
However, with standard enclosures, the IP protection rating can only be guaranteed in its original state. Once openings, drill holes, or similar modifications are made, the final device must be retested and, if necessary, certified by the customer.
2. Material:
It is important to use high-quality, single-type, UL-listed plastic materials.Depending on the intedned use of the enclosures, they may also need to have higher weather restistance and improved fire protection (e.g. ASA+PC UL94 V-0 for Evotec / Easytec).
3. Mounting options:
There is often a requirement to mount enclosures on walls, pipes, rails, cable trays, or directly onto machinery (for example, equipment used in smart factories). Enclosures that can be screwed directly in place or secured to flat surfaces—such as walls, ceilings, or machines—using separate wall brackets are well suited to this purpose. In certain cases, magnets may also provide a practical fastening solution for machinery. There are also robust enclosure series (Easytec / Mini-Data-Box), which can be quickly and easily attached using cable ties or band clamps via external tabs.
Fastening options using external tabs (flange)
This decision ultimately rests with the customer. The advantage of standard enclosures is that they can be supplied from stock in quantities as small as a single unit, which is clearly beneficial from the manufacturer’s perspective. However, standard enclosures cannot always accommodate every requirement or customer preference. In this case, customer-specific modifications (mechanical processing, painting, printing, laser marking, EMC protection and more) can deliver significant benefits.
Modification options at OKW's in-house service centre
If the customer anticipates a sufficiently high volume of end devices, making investment in dedicated tooling economically viable, then customer-specific developments can be a sensible option. Additionally, there is the possibility of combining individually developed components with elements from the standard range, thereby reducing the overall investment.